Sentencing of the case has been continually postponed because Seddon has mental health issues and is currently the subject of an interim hospital order under section 38 of the Mental Health Act. But today (Friday, September 25) Chester Crown Court heard the matter will finally be concluded at 2pm on Wednesday, October 7.

He said a medical report would recommend a section 37 hospital order was appropriate along with a section 41 restriction order which can be added if the court is concerned about public safety and the level of risk.

Sentencing issues

At a previous hearing Mr Barnett told the court: “The defendant wishes to be sentenced to an indeterminate sentence of custody rather than the order being continued, it’s a matter for you.”

An indeterminate or indefinite sentence is the imposition of a sentence by imprisonment with no definite period of time set during sentencing. Its length is determined during custody based on the inmate’s conduct. The inmate could be returned to society or be kept in custody for the remainder of his/her life.

However, the presiding judge, Recorder Patrick Thompson, responded: “It’s not what the defendant wishes it’s what the court thinks is best.”

The judge at today’s hearing, Mr Recorder O’Donohoe, extended the interim hospital order until the next hearing.